Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is an important surgical procedure for both aesthetic and health reasons. In Istanbul, eyelid surgery is planned and performed by Op. Dr. Fatih Dağdelen, a specialist in plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery with more than 30 years of surgical experience and founder of Dora Hospital.
This surgery removes excess skin and fatty tissue from the eyelids to achieve a younger and more refreshed appearance. The eyes are the most powerful expression of our emotions. Over time, however, the eyelids can sag or become puffy because of aging, genetic factors and environmental influences. This is where blepharoplasty comes in; it renews and revitalizes your appearance while also helping protect your eye health.
Besides its aesthetic benefits, eyelid surgery also offers several health advantages. Excess skin on the eyelids can narrow the field of vision and create difficulties in daily life. Thanks to this surgery, not only the outward appearance but also visual comfort increases. After surgery, patients feel renewed both physically and psychologically. Keep reading to learn more about eyelid surgery and to find out about the advantages and preparation stages of this process.
Aesthetic Benefits of Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) has the potential to give many people a younger appearance aesthetically. The sagging and puffiness that develop in the eyelids with age can negatively affect facial expression. This can make people feel older. With eyelid surgery, this sagging is corrected, the eyes become more defined and the person’s overall appearance is refreshed.
Reviving facial expression is another important aesthetic benefit of eyelid surgery. Because the eyes are one of the most striking elements of the human face, changes in this area directly affect facial expression. When excess skin and fatty tissue are removed from the eyelids, the eyes take on a more open and refreshed look. This increases people’s self-confidence and also has a positive effect on their social relationships. For example, a person preparing for a job interview is likely to make a more effective impression with a young and dynamic appearance.
In addition, reducing the tired look of the eyes is one of the important aesthetic advantages of eyelid surgery. Under-eye bags and puffiness are frequently seen, especially in people who work at an intense pace and are under stress. Such signs can affect a person negatively, both physically and psychologically. When this tired look is eliminated with eyelid surgery, people feel more energetic and lively. Therefore, for eyelid surgery candidates, these aesthetic benefits are not limited to outward appearance but also improve overall quality of life.
Health Benefits of Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid surgery is a procedure that addresses not only aesthetic concerns but also health problems. Sagging of the eyelids that develops during the aging process in particular can narrow the field of vision and negatively affect daily life. This can cause difficulties especially in activities such as reading, using a computer or driving. After surgery, having a wider field of view as the excess skin on the eyelids is removed improves patients’ quality of life.
In addition, excess skin on the eyelids does not only obstruct vision; it can also lead to discomfort such as headaches and neck pain. The eye muscles are strained more because of the drooping eyelids, and over the long term this can cause muscle fatigue. When this burden is lightened with eyelid surgery, patients feel marked relief in the head and neck area as well. Thus a balance of health and beauty is achieved; a younger look aesthetically is gained and physical discomforts are eliminated.
Another important benefit of the surgery is the relief of discomfort caused by sagging eyelids. Problems such as an excessive feeling of strain in the eyes and watering can increase because of the effect of drooping eyelids. When these problems are eliminated with eyelid surgery, people’s overall quality of life improves and they can carry out their daily activities more comfortably. As a result, eyelid surgery provides many benefits both aesthetically and in terms of health, helping people feel better about themselves.
Who Is It Suitable For?
When considering eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), it is very important to identify suitable candidates for this procedure. Generally, people who have sagging or puffiness of the eyelids are the most suitable candidates for this surgery. However, every individual’s situation is different and personal assessments are needed. For example, a 35-year-old can experience changes in the eyelids at an early age because of genetic factors, while another person aged 60 can also experience similar problems. For this reason, although age is an important factor, each individual’s needs and expectations should be addressed separately.
Suitability for surgery is not limited to age; health status also plays a major role. Before eyelid surgery, patients are expected to be in good general health. Individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension or blood clotting problems may need a detailed examination before surgery. In addition, people who have had previous eye surgery or who have other eye health problems should discuss this openly with their doctors. Because such conditions can increase the risks of surgery, care should be taken in identifying suitable candidates.
Psychological effects are also an important factor in evaluating eyelid surgery. Being psychologically prepared before surgery can positively affect the patient’s recovery. Increased self-confidence can make a person more active in social life. However, having realistic expectations about the results of the surgery is also extremely important. Otherwise, feelings of disappointment can arise and this can lead to negative psychological effects. Therefore, people considering surgery need to evaluate whether they are ready both physically and psychologically.
How Much Does Eyelid Surgery Cost in Turkey?
There is no fixed price for eyelid surgery. The cost depends on whether the upper eyelids, lower eyelids or both are treated, the technique used, the type of anesthesia, whether it is combined with other procedures such as a facelift, and the length of the hospital stay. An exact price can only be given after a consultation.
Indicative market prices (sources as of 2026)
| Country | Indicative range | What the figure covers |
|---|---|---|
| Turkey | €3,100–€8,300 | Varies by clinic and technique. Hotel, transfers and flights may or may not be included. |
| United Kingdom | approx. £6,000–£7,000 | Nuffield Health guide prices (treatment only; about £6,100–£7,000 across hospitals). Consultation may be charged separately. |
| United States | $3,000–$6,500 | 2024 ASPS surgeon’s fee ranges: upper eyelids $3,000–$5,500, lower eyelids $3,709–$6,500. Anesthesia and facility fees are not clearly included. |
The UK and US figures are taken from public sources (Nuffield Health guide prices and 2024 ASPS surgeon’s fees). The Turkey range is indicative. None of these figures are Dr. Fatih Dağdelen’s prices or a quote. What a package covers differs between clinics, so always confirm in writing what your quote includes.
Get My Personalized Eyelid Surgery Quote
Preparation Before Eyelid Surgery
Before deciding on eyelid surgery, the consultations patients have with their doctors are extremely important. At this stage, patients should get detailed information about aesthetic procedures and express their expectations clearly. The doctor will create the most suitable surgical plan by evaluating the patient’s eye structure, age and medical history. In addition, getting information about possible risks and complications during these consultations helps patients make an informed decision.
Another important stage of the preparation process before surgery is having various tests and examinations. A detailed examination by an eye doctor is necessary to detect any existing conditions that could affect eye health. These examinations include important elements such as assessment of the visual field, measurement of eye pressure and a review of general health. Blood tests and an assessment of suitability for anesthesia are also part of this process.
Lifestyle changes are another factor to consider before eyelid surgery. Patients who smoke in particular are advised to quit at least a few weeks before the surgery date, since smoking can negatively affect recovery. In addition, the use of blood-thinning medications should also be taken into account. Eating healthily and getting enough rest in the period before surgery can also speed up recovery. All these preparations are of great importance for improving the quality of the results obtained after surgery.
The Surgical Process and Techniques
The eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) process usually begins with a plan customized to the patient’s needs. The surgery is generally performed under local anesthesia; in this way the patient can stay awake during the procedure but does not feel pain. However, general anesthesia can also be preferred in some cases. Before surgery, your doctor will decide which type of anesthesia is most suitable for you. Your health status and history also play an important role at this stage.
The surgery itself usually takes between 1 and 3 hours. The incisions made on the upper or lower part of the eyelids are planned to lie within the natural eyelid creases. This aims to minimize the appearance of scars during recovery. The surgeon rejuvenates the eyelids by removing excess skin, fat and muscle tissue. The incisions are then closed with sutures. Blepharoplasty, one of the most popular surgical options for aging in particular, can significantly improve facial aesthetics.
The techniques used include different methods such as classic blepharoplasty and endoscopic blepharoplasty. While the classic method is performed with incisions made directly on the eyelids, the endoscopic method offers a less invasive approach. The endoscopic method can generally result in less swelling and bruising. Both methods have advantages and disadvantages; therefore, your surgeon will determine which is most suitable for you.
In conclusion, the eyelid surgery process requires both technical knowledge and experience. Together with the appropriate anesthesia option, applying the right techniques ensures a successful result both aesthetically and in terms of health. As in the preparation process before surgery, it is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations at this stage as well. Remember that every individual’s needs are different and a personal approach is therefore essential.
The Recovery Process
The recovery process after eyelid surgery is extremely important for patients’ comfort and the quality of the results. In the first days after surgery, you need to rest your eyes and avoid overexertion. During this period, keeping your head elevated helps reduce swelling. It is also important to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and to protect yourself from wind outdoors. In the first few days, resting your eyes instead of opening and closing them frequently can speed up recovery.
Swelling and bruising are a natural result of eyelid surgery. Applying cold compresses is quite effective in coping with this. In the first 48 hours after surgery, applying a light cold compress to the eyelids both reduces swelling and eases the feeling of pain. In addition, regularly taking the medications recommended by your doctor and not exceeding the recommended doses also plays a critical role in the recovery process. Drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet during this time will increase the body’s ability to heal.
Follow-up appointments are an important part of the recovery process after eyelid surgery. Attending the follow-up appointments scheduled after surgery allows the doctor to monitor your recovery closely and helps detect possible problems early. At these appointments, it is possible for the doctor to make the necessary interventions or update your treatment plan in line with their assessments. Remember that every individual’s recovery process can differ; for this reason, you should definitely consult your doctor about any discomfort or unexpected situation you experience.
Psychological Effects
After eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), many people report that their self-confidence increases along with the physical change. Individuals who gain a younger and more dynamic appearance after surgery feel more comfortable in social settings as well as feeling satisfied when they look at themselves in the mirror. Such changes can help people feel better about themselves and strengthen their social relationships.
The changes in mood after surgery are also noteworthy. Some people who have eyelid surgery may experience emotional ups and downs in the early stages of recovery. Over time, however, it is common for these emotional effects to give way to a more positive mood as they get used to their new appearance. The adaptation process plays an important role both in individuals’ inner worlds and in their interactions with their surroundings; supportive friend and family relationships can strengthen psychological health during this process.
The positive changes observed in social life cannot be ignored either. After blepharoplasty, many people say that their desire to attend social events increased and that they found more opportunities to meet people. All these experiences show that eyelid surgery has positive effects not only physically but also psychologically. However, as with every surgical procedure, it is important to be informed about the risks of blepharoplasty as well; in this way individuals can make informed decisions and go through the process more healthily.
Possible Risks and Complications
Although eyelid surgery is generally a safe procedure, it carries some risks and complications, as every surgical procedure does. One of the most common risks that can be encountered after surgery is the development of infection. This can occur when the sutures and tissues in the eyelid do not heal properly. Signs of infection can include redness, swelling, excessive pain and pus. When such signs are encountered, it is important to see a doctor immediately.
In addition, after eyelid surgery patients can experience temporary or permanent vision problems. These can include blurred vision, double vision or excessive sensitivity to light. Vision problems are usually temporary, but if they last a long time it will be useful to see a specialist eye doctor. Aesthetic results such as asymmetry or incorrect positioning of the eyelids can also be encountered after surgery. Such situations may require additional procedures for cosmetic improvement.
Preventive measures taken before and after surgery play an important role in reducing the risk of complications. Following the doctor’s recommendations to the letter speeds up recovery and prevents possible problems. For example, wearing sunglasses to protect the eyes in the post-operative period and avoiding intense physical activity are recommended. In addition, regular use of medications and attending follow-up appointments make it possible to notice possible risks in time.
In conclusion, it is of great importance for people considering eyelid surgery to make informed decisions by taking these potential risks into account. Although the aesthetic benefits are attractive, a careful approach is essential to prevent situations that threaten health.
Planning Your Eyelid Surgery in Istanbul
If you are travelling from abroad, the length of your stay in Istanbul and the follow-up schedule are planned individually, according to your surgical plan. Discuss with the team before your trip how many days you should stay after surgery, when follow-up checks will take place and how you can reach the team after you return home.
Related procedures: facelift, midface lift and eyelid surgery for men.
Conclusion
Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is a surgical procedure that offers important benefits both aesthetically and in terms of health. This surgery not only provides a rejuvenated appearance but also supports eye health by widening the field of vision. Operations performed with attention to the balance of aesthetics and health can improve a person’s quality of life.
Making an informed decision is the most critical step in the eyelid surgery process. Detailed research before surgery and conversations with your doctor will help you make the right choice. Feeling safe and setting your expectations clearly is important for a successful result. Remember that being informed in this process allows you to keep your aesthetic concerns and your health needs in balance.
How does the aesthetic surgery process begin?
The process begins with a detailed consultation with a specialist doctor. In this meeting, your expectations are evaluated, the most suitable treatment plan is created and detailed information about the operation is given.
What should I expect on the day of surgery?
On the day of surgery, your hospital admission procedures are completed and your doctor performs the final checks. The operation is carried out in a modern and sterile environment, and the type of anesthesia is determined depending on your procedure.
How long does recovery take?
The recovery time of each operation is different. In general, rest is recommended for the first few days, and effects such as swelling and bruising decrease over time. You can speed up the process by following the care instructions your doctor gives you.
Can I get support after surgery?
Yes! We are by your side at every stage of your process with our post-operative check-ups and consultation services. You can always get support from our team throughout your recovery.
Do It Once, Do It Right!
Your aesthetic surgery experience with Dr. Fatih Dağdelen is shaped by your personal needs and preferences. All patients can also expect high-standard personalized care and a comfortable treatment process.
Our expert team supports you at all stages, from the first consultation to post-operative care. Our warm and friendly staff are happy to answer your questions on every subject and ensure that your treatment process is as comfortable as possible.
Do not hesitate to contact us for more information.
